Fort Cascades Trail is a flat, easy, toddler-friendly loop along the Columbia River.

This easy 1.5-mile loop is on the Washington side of the Bonneville dam. It is flat but gravel and a little narrow. A stroller could probably make it but I’d recommend you leave it in the car for this nature walk.

This trail takes you along an area that was previously inhabited by Native Americans but later became a U.S. Army fort, the town of Cascades between 1850 and 1894. The town site was abandoned after the great flood of 1894 washed all the buildings away.

There is a trail guide you can download ahead of time or there may be paper copies at the kiosk near the parking lot. This guide describes the 14 different points of interest along the trail. Keep your eyes peeled for old historic pieces still around.

Try to stay on the trail to preserve the National Historic Site and there can be some poison oak if you venture off the trail.

There are a couple of benches along the trail to stop and rest at or for snack stops. Picnic tables, restrooms, and information kiosks are by the trailhead. We love this trail for the toddler age because it's flat and a good distance.

If you visit during the fish season, the kids might like to watch the fisherman nearby along the Dam Access Road that parallels the Columbia River. Nearby is the Bonneville Dam Washington Shore Visitor Center which has powerhouse tours, fish ladders, and a visitor center with lots of informational displays.

Dogs are allowed on this trail on leash. No fees or charges for parking.